A recent and extraordinary discovery has shaken the coin collecting world—a pristine uncirculated 1893-S Morgan Dollar has been unearthed from an old cookie tin tucked away in a family attic.
This coin, long hailed as one of the rarest in U.S. numismatic history, is now heading to auction with an estimated value of $225,000.
Why the 1893-S Morgan Dollar Is So Valuable
The 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar is widely regarded as the key date in the Morgan series due to its extremely low mintage and historical context.
Minted during a severe economic depression, only 100,000 coins were struck at the San Francisco Mint. Many were melted down over the years, and very few exist in mint state today.
Key Details of the 1893-S Morgan Dollar
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Mint | San Francisco (S) |
| Mintage | 100,000 |
| Metal Composition | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Diameter | 38.1 mm |
| Weight | 26.73 grams |
| Designer | George T. Morgan |
| Estimated Auction Value | $225,000 |
This coin is the holy grail for Morgan dollar collectors, especially when found in uncirculated condition, which is a rarity on its own.
Discovery in an Old Cookie Tin
The coin was stumbled upon while a family was cleaning out an attic. Among old letters, trinkets, and heirlooms, they came across a vintage cookie tin filled with various objects—and nestled among them was the brilliantly preserved 1893-S Morgan Dollar.
The coin showed no signs of circulation, maintaining its original luster and sharp strike, suggesting it had been carefully stored away for decades. Upon expert examination, it was confirmed to be genuine and in a high mint-state grade.
Auction Date and Expectations
The coin is scheduled to be auctioned later in 2025, and experts believe the bidding will be fierce. While similar examples in lower grades often sell for $50,000 to $100,000, this uncirculated piece is projected to exceed $225,000 due to its impeccable condition and rarity.
Historical Value Growth
Over the years, this coin has seen dramatic value appreciation:
- Lower-grade coins (Good to Fine) often fetch $10,000–$25,000
- XF to AU grades range between $75,000–$150,000
- Mint-state examples have sold for upwards of $600,000
- The highest known graded piece (MS67) fetched over $2 million
These figures show why the 1893-S Morgan Dollar is more than a collector’s item—it’s a serious investment.
Counterfeit Alert
Due to its high value, the 1893-S Morgan Dollar is frequently targeted by counterfeiters. Many fakes are created by altering the mint mark on common 1893 Philadelphia issues. Collectors are advised to verify their coins through professional grading services to ensure authenticity.
The surfacing of a mint-condition 1893-S Morgan Dollar in an attic cookie tin is a once-in-a-generation event. With an estimated auction price of $225,000, this coin exemplifies the thrill of numismatics and the hidden treasures that may still be tucked away in homes across the country.
As it heads to auction, it serves as a reminder that history—and perhaps a small fortune—might be hiding in the most unexpected places.
FAQs
Why is the 1893-S Morgan Dollar so rare?
Only 100,000 were minted during an economic downturn, and many were later melted. Few survived, especially in uncirculated condition.
Can I find one in circulation today?
It is highly unlikely. Most surviving examples are in collections. However, one might surface in old estates or hidden away in long-forgotten storage.
How do I authenticate a Morgan Dollar?
Use a reputable grading service to confirm authenticity and assess the coin’s condition for accurate valuation.